Monday, January 23, 2012

Punctuation--Comma usage

    This post will focus on the usage of comma. Comma is a punctuation mainly used for separating things. I choose this topic because I was so confused about how to use this punctuation in writings sometime. Now, I studied this topic and I have a clear understanding of the comma usage.
    
Comma usage 


  •     Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that separate two independent clauses (unless the independent clauses are very short).
    
    Examples:  
                      a). This math problem is so difficult for me to figure it out, but I will try my best to work     on it.
                      b). He wanted to help me but I refused.



  •      Use a comma after an introductory word, phrase, or clause that comes before a main clause.
    Examples:
                      a). Eventually, we finished our trip to China.
                      b). After we finished our trip to China, we went to Mongolia next day.
                      c). Since I am an international student, it is hard for me to understand my professor completely.
                      

  •      Use commas to separate things.
    Example:
                    a). I love many makeup brands such as Chanel, Lancome, Bobbi Brown and La Mer etc.

  •      Use a comma to set off a nonrestrictive attributive clause.
     Example:
                     a). Jenny has received her mother's letter, which makes her so surprised.



  •     Use commas around words, phrases, and clauses in the middle of the sentence when they are not essential to the meaning of the sentence.
     Examples: 
                      a). My father, however, he did not agree.
                      b). China, on the other hand, is developing very fast. 
                      c). My father, who is a very kind man, always like to sing songs for me.
  •    Use commas before and after a quotation within a sentence.
     Example:
                     a). My mother always said," The more you do, the more you can learn."
  •    Use a comma before an afterthought or contrasting element.
     Example:
                     a). When we come across difficult problems, we should try our best to solve them, not avoid them.
  •    Use commas to set off geographical names, items in date,and professional titles.
     Example:
                     a). My father was born on January 12, 1970, in a simple family.



 
   

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